SHIPAIR

Assessing the Air Quality and Climate Impact of Shipping Emissions Reductions

What SHIPAIR works on

SHIPAIR investigates how sulfur reduction and decarbonization strategies in the shipping sector affect air quality, atmospheric chemistry, and climate in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a focus on the Port of Piraeus, Greece.

Objectives

SHIPAIR combines scientific research with advanced modelling tools to:

  • Develop a high-resolution shipping emissions inventory for the Port of Piraeus
  • Assess the impact of shipping emissions on atmospheric composition using an integrated air quality modelling system and receptor modelling
  • Analyze future scenarios, including the Mediterranean Sea as a Sulfur Emission Control Area (SECA) and the use of alternative fuels
  • Evaluate short- and long-term effects of sulfur reduction and decarbonization on climate using a radiative transfer model

Key Challenges

  • Collection of detailed, high-resolution shipping activity and emissions data
  • Integration and validation of an integrating air quality modelling system (WRF-CAMx) using source apportionment techniques
  • Acquisition and analysis of high-quality atmospheric measurements required for receptor modelling
  • Simulation of realistic future scenarios considering technological and regulatory changes
  • Εstimation of climate effects from shipping emission reductions (balancing warming and cooling impacts of pollutants)

Impact

SHIPAIR contributes to environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable energy use.
Its results will support policymakers and stakeholders in designing effective climate strategies and can serve as a model for other coastal regions.

Host Institution

academy of athens

SHIPAIR is hosted by Academy of Athens